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White JD, Minto MS, Willis C, Quach BC, Han S, Tao R, Deep-Soboslay A, Zillich L, Witt SH, Spanagel R, Hansson AC, Clark SL, van den Oord EJ, Hyde TM, Mayfield RD, Webb BT, Johnson EO, Kleinman JE, Bierut LJ, Hancock DB. Alcohol Use Disorder-Associated DNA Methylation in the Nucleus Accumbens and Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 4:100375. [PMID: 39399155 PMCID: PMC11470413 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2024.100375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has a profound public health impact. However, understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the development and progression of AUD remains limited. Here, we investigated AUD-associated DNA methylation changes within and across 2 addiction-relevant brain regions, the nucleus accumbens and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Methods Illumina HumanMethylation EPIC array data from 119 decedents (61 cases, 58 controls) were analyzed using robust linear regression with adjustment for technical and biological variables. Associations were characterized using integrative analyses of public annotation data and published genetic and epigenetic studies. We also tested for brain region-shared and brain region-specific associations using mixed-effects modeling and assessed implications of these results using public gene expression data from human brain. Results At a false discovery rate of ≤.05, we identified 105 unique AUD-associated CpGs (annotated to 120 genes) within and across brain regions. AUD-associated CpGs were enriched in histone marks that tag active promoters, and our strongest signals were specific to a single brain region. Some concordance was found between our results and those of earlier published alcohol use or dependence methylation studies. Of the 120 genes, 23 overlapped with previous genetic associations for substance use behaviors, some of which also overlapped with previous addiction-related methylation studies. Conclusions Our findings identify AUD-associated methylation signals and provide evidence of overlap with previous genetic and methylation studies. These signals may constitute predisposing genetic differences or robust methylation changes associated with AUD, although more work is needed to further disentangle the mechanisms that underlie these associations and their implications for AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie D. White
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Melyssa S. Minto
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Caryn Willis
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Bryan C. Quach
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Shizhong Han
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ran Tao
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Lea Zillich
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stephanie H. Witt
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anita C. Hansson
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shaunna L. Clark
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Edwin J.C.G. van den Oord
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virgina
| | - Thomas M. Hyde
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, the University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Bradley T. Webb
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Eric O. Johnson
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
- Fellow Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | | | - Laura J. Bierut
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Dana B. Hancock
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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2
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Willis C, White JD, Minto MS, Quach BC, Han S, Tao R, Shin JH, Deep-Soboslay A, Hyde TM, Mayfield RD, Webb BT, Johnson EO, Kleinman JE, Bierut LJ, Hancock DB. Gene expression differences associated with alcohol use disorder in human brain. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02777-1. [PMID: 39394458 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02777-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/30/2024] [Indexed: 10/13/2024]
Abstract
Excessive alcohol consumption is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. To improve understanding of neurobiological mechanisms associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in humans, we compared gene expression data from deceased individuals with and without AUD across two addiction-relevant brain regions: the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Bulk RNA-seq data from NAc and DLPFC (N ≥50 with AUD, ≥46 non-AUD) were analyzed for differential gene expression using modified negative binomial regression adjusting for technical and biological covariates. The region-level results were meta-analyzed with those from an independent dataset (NNAc = 28 AUD, 29 non-AUD; NPFC = 66 AUD, 77 non-AUD). We further tested for heritability enrichment of AUD-related phenotypes, gene co-expression networks, gene ontology enrichment, and drug repurposing. We identified 176 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 12 in both regions, 78 in NAc only, 86 in DLPFC only) for AUD in our new dataset. After meta-analyzing with published data, we identified 476 AUD DEGs (25 in both regions, 29 in NAc only, 422 in PFC only). Of these DEGs, 17 were significant when looked up in GWAS of problematic alcohol use or drinks per week. Gene co-expression analysis showed both concordant and unique gene networks across brain regions. We also identified 29 and 436 drug compounds that target DEGs from our meta-analysis in NAc and PFC, respectively. This study identified robust AUD-associated DEGs, contributing novel neurobiological insights into AUD and highlighting genes targeted by known drug compounds, generating opportunity for drug repurposing to treat AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caryn Willis
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Julie D White
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Melyssa S Minto
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Bryan C Quach
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shizhong Han
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ran Tao
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joo Heon Shin
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Thomas M Hyde
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - R Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Bradley T Webb
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Eric O Johnson
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Fellow Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Joel E Kleinman
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura J Bierut
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dana B Hancock
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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3
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Zhang Y, Fu J, Zhao X. Neural correlates of working memory training: An fMRI meta-analysis. Neuroimage 2024; 301:120885. [PMID: 39395643 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Working memory (WM) can be improved by cognitive training. Numerous studies examined neural mechanisms underlying WM training, although with differing conclusions. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to examine the neural substrates underlying WM training in healthy adults. Findings from global analyses showed substantial neural changes in the frontoparietal and subcortical regions. Results from training dosage analyses of WM training showed that shorter WM training could produce neural changes in the frontoparietal regions, whereas longer WM training could produce changes in the subcortical regions (striatum, anterior cingulate cortex, and insula). WM training-induced neural changes were also moderated by the type of training task, with updating tasks inducing neural changes in more regions than maintenance tasks. Overall, these results indicate that the neural changes associated with WM training occur in the frontoparietal network and dopamine-related brain areas, extending previous meta-analyses on WM training and advancing our understanding of the neural underpinnings of WM training effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- School of Psychology, Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Mental Health of Gansu Province, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Junjun Fu
- School of Psychology, Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Mental Health of Gansu Province, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- School of Psychology, Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Mental Health of Gansu Province, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China.
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4
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Ballard IC, Furman DJ, Berry AS, White RL, Jagust WJ, Kayser AS, D'Esposito M. A dopaminergic basis of behavioral control. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.17.613524. [PMID: 39345422 PMCID: PMC11429830 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.17.613524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Both goal-directed and automatic processes shape human behavior, but these processes often conflict. Behavioral control is the decision about which process guides behavior. Despite the importance of behavioral control for adaptive decision-making, its neural mechanisms remain unclear. Critically, it is unknown if there are mechanisms for behavioral control that are distinct from those supporting the formation of goal-relevant knowledge. We performed deep phenotyping of individual dopamine system function by combining multiple PET scans, fMRI, and dopaminergic drug administration in a within-subject, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Subjects performed a rule-based response time task, with goal-directed and automatic decision-making operationalized as model-based and model-free influences on behavior. We found a double dissociation between two aspects of ventral striatal dopamine physiology: D2/3 receptor availability and dopamine synthesis capacity. Convergent and causal evidence indicated that D2/3 receptors regulate behavioral control by enhancing model-based and blunting model-free influences on behavior but do not affect model-based knowledge formation. In contrast, dopamine synthesis capacity was linked to the formation of model-based knowledge but not behavioral control. D2/3 receptors also modulated frontostriatal functional connectivity, suggesting they regulate behavioral control by gating prefrontal inputs to the striatum. These results identify central mechanisms underlying individual and state differences in behavioral control and point to striatal D2/3 receptors as targets for interventions for improving goal-directed behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian C Ballard
- Psychology Department, University of California, Riverside
| | | | | | - Robert L White
- Neurology Department, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
| | | | - Andrew S Kayser
- Neurology Department, University of California, San Francisco
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley
- San Francisco VA Health Care System
| | - Mark D'Esposito
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley
- Psychology Department, University of California, Berkeley
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5
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Carnes MU, Quach BC, Zhou L, Han S, Tao R, Mandal M, Deep-Soboslay A, Marks JA, Page GP, Maher BS, Jaffe AE, Won H, Bierut LJ, Hyde TM, Kleinman JE, Johnson EO, Hancock DB. Smoking-informed methylation and expression QTLs in human brain and colocalization with smoking-associated genetic loci. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:1749-1757. [PMID: 38830989 PMCID: PMC11399277 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01885-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Smoking is a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. Smoking is heritable, and genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of smoking behaviors have identified hundreds of significant loci. Most GWAS-identified variants are noncoding with unknown neurobiological effects. We used genome-wide genotype, DNA methylation, and RNA sequencing data in postmortem human nucleus accumbens (NAc) to identify cis-methylation/expression quantitative trait loci (meQTLs/eQTLs), investigate variant-by-cigarette smoking interactions across the genome, and overlay QTL evidence at smoking GWAS-identified loci to evaluate their regulatory potential. Active smokers (N = 52) and nonsmokers (N = 171) were defined based on cotinine biomarker levels and next-of-kin reporting. We simultaneously tested variant and variant-by-smoking interaction effects on methylation and expression, separately, adjusting for biological and technical covariates and correcting for multiple testing using a two-stage procedure. We found >2 million significant meQTL variants (padj < 0.05) corresponding to 41,695 unique CpGs. Results were largely driven by main effects, and five meQTLs, mapping to NUDT12, FAM53B, RNF39, and ADRA1B, showed a significant interaction with smoking. We found 57,683 significant eQTL variants for 958 unique eGenes (padj < 0.05) and no smoking interactions. Colocalization analyses identified loci with smoking-associated GWAS variants that overlapped meQTLs/eQTLs, suggesting that these heritable factors may influence smoking behaviors through functional effects on methylation/expression. One locus containing MUSTN1 and ITIH4 colocalized across all data types (GWAS, meQTL, and eQTL). In this first genome-wide meQTL map in the human NAc, the enriched overlap with smoking GWAS-identified genetic loci provides evidence that gene regulation in the brain helps explain the neurobiology of smoking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Ulmer Carnes
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Bryan C Quach
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Linran Zhou
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shizhong Han
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ran Tao
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Meisha Mandal
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Jesse A Marks
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Grier P Page
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Fellow Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Brion S Maher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrew E Jaffe
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hyejung Won
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Laura J Bierut
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Thomas M Hyde
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joel E Kleinman
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eric O Johnson
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Fellow Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Dana B Hancock
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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6
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Pearson AC, Ostroumov A. Midbrain KCC2 downregulation: Implications for stress-related and substance use behaviors. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2024; 88:102901. [PMID: 39142020 PMCID: PMC11392611 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2024.102901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Stress-related and substance use disorders are both characterized by disruptions in reward-related behaviors, and these disorders are often comorbid with one another. Recent investigations have identified a novel mechanism of inhibitory plasticity induced by both stress and substance use within the ventral tegmental area (VTA), a key region in reward processing. This mechanism involves the neuron-specific potassium chloride cotransporter isoform 2 (KCC2), which is essential in modulating inhibitory signaling through the regulation of intracellular chloride (Cl-) in VTA GABA neurons. Experiences, such as exposure to stress or substance use, diminish KCC2 expression in VTA GABA neurons, leading to abnormal reward-related behaviors. Here, we review literature suggesting that KCC2 downregulation contributes to irregular dopamine (DA) transmission, impacting multiple reward circuits and promoting maladaptive behaviors. Activating KCC2 restores canonical GABA functioning and reduces behavioral deficits in preclinical models, leading us to advocate for KCC2 as a target for therapies aimed at alleviating and mitigating various stress-related and substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Pearson
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA. https://twitter.com/AnnaCPearson
| | - Alexey Ostroumov
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
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7
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Pan L, Yang F, Xu S, Lin D, Jiang C. Fluorescence sensing probe based on functionalized mesoporous MOFs for non-invasive and detection of dopamine in human fluids. Talanta 2024; 278:126356. [PMID: 38905963 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.126356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal amount of dopamine (DA) in human body is closely relate to various diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, pheochromocytoma. Real-time monitoring DA is crucial for disease warning, diagnosis and treatment. Currently, most methods rely on invasive blood testing for detecting DA, which is only completed with the aid of the medical staffs in hospitals. Herein, a non-invasive fluorescence visual strategy is developed for the real-time monitoring DA, based on luminescent nanoparticles and modified mesoporous zeolite imidazole framework (ZIF-8-NH2) dodecahedrons. During the reaction process, DA is enriched through the spatial configuration of ZIF-8-NH2 and hydrogen bonding effect. The luminescence of Cr3+-doped zinc gallate (ZnGa2O4:Cr3+, ZGC) is inhibited by the photo-induced electron transfer (PET) mechanism to realize sensitively detecting DA. The intelligent sensing platform based on the designed fluorescence probe and color recognition system is structured for real-time detection of DA in urine. Furthermore, a skin-fitting hydrogel patch is prepared by combining a fluorescent probe with chitosan, which enables sensitive and accurate detection of DA in sweat without the complex sample pretreatment. The non-invasive fluorescence detection method provides an effective strategy for quantitatively monitoring DA in human fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Pan
- Institute of Solid State Physics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China; Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Solid State Physics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China; Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic and Energy Conservation Materials, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.
| | - Shihao Xu
- Institute of Solid State Physics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China; Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic and Energy Conservation Materials, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Dan Lin
- Institute of Solid State Physics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China; Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic and Energy Conservation Materials, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Changlong Jiang
- Institute of Solid State Physics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China; Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic and Energy Conservation Materials, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.
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8
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Pedrón VT, Canero EM, Varani AP, Aon AJ, Maldonado R, Balerio GN. Baclofen prevents morphine rewarding effects and associated biochemical alterations in male and female mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 979:176768. [PMID: 39002637 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies from our laboratory have shown sex differences in the behavioral, molecular, and neurochemical manifestations of morphine withdrawal and they were related to an increased sensitivity to morphine effects in males. In addition, we observed an interaction between the GABAergic and opioid systems that could also be sex-dependent. Baclofen, a GABAB receptor agonist, prevented the somatic expression and the molecular and neurochemical changes induced by morphine withdrawal syndrome in mice. On the contrary, little is known about baclofen effects in the rewarding properties of morphine in male and female mice. The present study aimed to explore the effect of baclofen (1, 2 and 3 mg/kg, i.p.) pretreatment in the rewarding effects induced by morphine (7 mg/kg, s.c.) and its effect on c-Fos and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression induced by the rewarding properties of morphine in prepubertal male and female mice. Baclofen (2 mg/kg) pretreatment prevented the rewarding effects of morphine only in male mice, while baclofen (3 mg/kg) reduced these effects in both sexes. Moreover, the rewarding effects of morphine were associated with a decrease of BDNF and c-Fos expression cingulate cortex, nucleus accumbens shell, cornu ammonis 1 (CA1), and cornu ammonis 3 (CA3) areas of the hippocampus only in male mice. In addition, baclofen pretreatment prevented these changes in BDNF, but not in c-Fos expression. In conclusion, our results show that GABAB receptors have a regulatory role in the rewarding effects of morphine that could be of interest for a potential future therapeutic application in opioid use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria T Pedrón
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-CONICET), Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eliana M Canero
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-CONICET), Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Farmacología, Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrés P Varani
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-CONICET), Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Amira J Aon
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-CONICET), Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Facultat de Ciències de La Salut I de La Vida, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, C/Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Graciela N Balerio
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-CONICET), Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Farmacología, Junín 956, 5° Piso, C1113AAD, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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9
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Teng H, Zhu L, Zhang X, Qiu B. When Games Influence Words: Gaming Addiction among College Students Increases Verbal Aggression through Risk-Biased Drifting in Decision-Making. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:699. [PMID: 39199095 PMCID: PMC11352047 DOI: 10.3390/bs14080699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Increased aggression due to gaming addiction is a widespread and highly publicized problem. The underlying processes by which verbal aggression, a more harmful and persistent subcategory of aggression, is affected by gaming addiction may differ from other types of aggression. In this study, data came from 252 randomly recruited current university students (50.79% male, mean age 19.60 years, SD: 1.44 years, range 17 to 29 years). Participants reported gaming addiction and different types of aggression through questionnaires. In addition, two important explanatory processes, inhibitory control, and risk preference, were measured through behavioral experiments. A Bayesian hierarchical drift-diffusion model was employed to interpret the data from the risk preference task. In contrast to previous work, the study found that inhibitory control did not significantly correlate with either gaming addiction or any form of aggression However, the drift rate, a measure of decision-making inclination under risk, partially mediates the relationship between gaming addiction and verbal aggression (but not other forms of aggression). The findings illuminate risk preference under adverse conditions as a key predictor of verbal aggression, offering avenues for early intervention and suggesting game design modifications to mitigate verbal aggression by adjusting reward mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huina Teng
- School of Health Management, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510180, China
| | - Lixin Zhu
- School of Health Management, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510180, China
| | - Xuanyu Zhang
- School of Mental Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510180, China
| | - Boyu Qiu
- School of Health Management, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510180, China
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10
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Cheng Z, Zhao F, Piao J, Yang W, Cui R, Li B. Rasd2 regulates depression-like behaviors via DRD2 neurons in the prelimbic cortex afferent to nucleus accumbens core circuit. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02684-5. [PMID: 39097664 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02684-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Depressive symptoms, such as anhedonia, decreased social interaction, and lack of motivation, implicate brain reward systems in the pathophysiology of depression. Exposure to chronic stress impairs the function of brain reward circuits and is well-known to be involved in the etiology of depression. A transcriptomic analysis found that stress alters the expression of Rasd2 in mice prefrontal cortex (PFC). Similarly, in our previous study, acute fasting decreased Rasd2 expression in mice PFC, and RASD2 modulated dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2)-mediated antidepressant-like effects in ovariectomized mice. This research suggests the role of RASD2 in stress-induced depression and its underlying neural mechanisms that require further investigation. Here, we show that 5-day unpredictable mild stress (5-d UMS) exposure reduces RASD2 expression in both the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of mice, while overexpression (but not knock-down) of Rasd2 in the NAc core (NAcc) alleviates 5-d UMS-induced depression-like behaviors and activates the DRD2-cAMP-PKA-DARPP-32 signaling pathway. Further studies investigated neuronal projections between the mPFC (Cg1, PrL, and IL) and NAcc, labeled by the retrograde tracer Fluorogold. Depression-like behaviors induced by 5-d UMS were only related to inhibition of the PrL-NAcc circuit. DREADD (Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drug) analysis found that the activation of PrL-NAcc glutaminergic projection alleviated depression-like behaviors and increased DRD2- and RASD2-positive neurons in the NAcc. Using Drd2-cre transgenic mice, we constructed mice with Rasd2 overexpression in DRD2PrL-NAcc neurons, finding that Rasd2 overexpression ameliorated 5-d UMS-induced depression-like behaviors. These findings demonstrate a critical role for RASD2 modulation of DRD2PrL-NAcc neurons in 5-d UMS-induced depression-like behaviors. In addition, the study identifies a new potential strategy for precision medical treatment of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqian Cheng
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Engineering Lab on Screening of Antidepressant Drugs, Jilin Province Development and Reform Commission, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Fangyi Zhao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Engineering Lab on Screening of Antidepressant Drugs, Jilin Province Development and Reform Commission, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Jingjing Piao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Engineering Lab on Screening of Antidepressant Drugs, Jilin Province Development and Reform Commission, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Wei Yang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Engineering Lab on Screening of Antidepressant Drugs, Jilin Province Development and Reform Commission, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Ranji Cui
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China.
- Engineering Lab on Screening of Antidepressant Drugs, Jilin Province Development and Reform Commission, Changchun, 130041, PR China.
| | - Bingjin Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China.
- Engineering Lab on Screening of Antidepressant Drugs, Jilin Province Development and Reform Commission, Changchun, 130041, PR China.
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11
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Zhou Z, Yan Y, Gu H, Sun R, Liao Z, Xue K, Tang C. Dopamine in the prefrontal cortex plays multiple roles in the executive function of patients with Parkinson's disease. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1759-1767. [PMID: 38103242 PMCID: PMC10960281 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.389631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease can affect not only motor functions but also cognitive abilities, leading to cognitive impairment. One common issue in Parkinson's disease with cognitive dysfunction is the difficulty in executive functioning. Executive functions help us plan, organize, and control our actions based on our goals. The brain area responsible for executive functions is called the prefrontal cortex. It acts as the command center for the brain, especially when it comes to regulating executive functions. The role of the prefrontal cortex in cognitive processes is influenced by a chemical messenger called dopamine. However, little is known about how dopamine affects the cognitive functions of patients with Parkinson's disease. In this article, the authors review the latest research on this topic. They start by looking at how the dopaminergic system, is altered in Parkinson's disease with executive dysfunction. Then, they explore how these changes in dopamine impact the synaptic structure, electrical activity, and connection components of the prefrontal cortex. The authors also summarize the relationship between Parkinson's disease and dopamine-related cognitive issues. This information may offer valuable insights and directions for further research and improvement in the clinical treatment of cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihang Zhou
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yalong Yan
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Heng Gu
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ruiao Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zihan Liao
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ke Xue
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chuanxi Tang
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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12
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Liu Q, Davey D, Jimmy J, Ajilore O, Klumpp H. Network Analysis of Behavioral Activation/Inhibition Systems and Brain Volume in Individuals With and Without Major Depressive Disorder or Social Anxiety Disorder. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2024; 9:551-560. [PMID: 37659443 PMCID: PMC10904669 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2023.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social anxiety disorder (SAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) are characterized by behavioral abnormalities in motivational systems, namely the behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system (BAS). Limited studies indicate brain volume in regions that support emotion, learning/memory, reward, and cognitive functions relate to BIS/BAS. To increase understanding of BIS/BAS, the current study used a network approach. METHODS Patients with SAD (n = 59), patients with MDD (n = 64), and healthy control participants (n = 36) completed a BIS/BAS questionnaire and structural magnetic resonance imaging scans; volumetric regions of interest comprised cortical and limbic structures based on previous BIS/BAS studies. A Bayesian Gaussian graphical model was used for each diagnostic group, and groups were compared. Among network metrics, bridge centrality was of primary interest. Analysis of variance evaluated BIS/BAS behaviors between groups. RESULTS Bridge centrality showed hippocampus positively related to BAS, but not to BIS, in the MDD group; no findings were observed in the SAD or control groups. Yet, network density (i.e., overall strength of relationships between variables) and degree centrality (i.e., overall relationship between one variable to all other variables) showed that cortical (e.g., precuneus, medial orbitofrontal) and subcortical (e.g., amygdala, hippocampus) regions differed between diagnostic groups. Analysis of variance results showed BAS was lower in the MDD/SAD groups compared with the control group, while BIS was higher in the SAD group relative to the MDD group, which in turn was higher than the control group. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary findings indicate that network-level aberrations may underlie motivational abnormalities in MDD and SAD. Evidence of BIS/BAS differences builds on previous work that points to shared and distinct motivational differences in internalizing psychopathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qimin Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Delaney Davey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Jagan Jimmy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Olusola Ajilore
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Heide Klumpp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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13
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Montgomery SE, Li L, Russo SJ, Calipari ES, Nestler EJ, Morel C, Han MH. Mesolimbic Neural Response Dynamics Predict Future Individual Alcohol Drinking in Mice. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:951-962. [PMID: 38061466 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individual variability in response to rewarding stimuli is a striking but understudied phenomenon. The mesolimbic dopamine system is critical in encoding the reinforcing properties of both natural reward and alcohol; however, how innate or baseline differences in the response dynamics of this circuit define individual behavior and shape future vulnerability to alcohol remain unknown. METHODS Using naturalistic behavioral assays, a voluntary alcohol drinking paradigm, in vivo fiber photometry, in vivo electrophysiology, and chemogenetics, we investigated how differences in mesolimbic neural circuit activity contribute to the individual variability seen in reward processing and, by proxy, alcohol drinking. RESULTS We first characterized heterogeneous behavioral and neural responses to natural reward and defined how these baseline responses predicted future individual alcohol-drinking phenotypes in male mice. We then determined spontaneous ventral tegmental area dopamine neuron firing profiles associated with responses to natural reward that predicted alcohol drinking. Using a dual chemogenetic approach, we mimicked specific mesolimbic dopamine neuron firing activity before or during voluntary alcohol drinking to link unique neurophysiological profiles to individual phenotype. We show that hyperdopaminergic individuals exhibit a lower neuronal response to both natural reward and alcohol that predicts lower levels of alcohol consumption in the future. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal unique, circuit-specific neural signatures that predict future individual vulnerability or resistance to alcohol and expand the current knowledge base on how some individuals are able to titrate their alcohol consumption whereas others go on to engage in unhealthy alcohol-drinking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Montgomery
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Friedman Brain Institute and the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Long Li
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Friedman Brain Institute and the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Scott J Russo
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Friedman Brain Institute and the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Erin S Calipari
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Friedman Brain Institute and the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Departments of Pharmacology, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Friedman Brain Institute and the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Carole Morel
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
| | - Ming-Hu Han
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Friedman Brain Institute and the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Department of Mental Health and Public Health, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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14
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Yu M, Sun F, Xiang G, Zhang Y, Wang X, Liu X, Huang B, Li X, Zhang D. Liver kinase B-1 modulates the activity of dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area and regulates social memory formation. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1289476. [PMID: 38646099 PMCID: PMC11026561 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1289476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Social memory is the ability to discriminate between familiar and unknown conspecifics. It is an important component of social cognition and is therefore essential for the establishment of social relationships. Although the neural circuit mechanisms underlying social memory encoding have been well investigated, little focus has been placed on the regulatory mechanisms of social memory processing. The dopaminergic system, originating from the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA), is a key modulator of cognitive function. This study aimed to illustrate its role in modulating social memory and explore the possible molecular mechanisms. Here, we show that the activation of VTA dopamine (DA) neurons is required for the formation, but not the retrieval, of social memory. Inhibition of VTA DA neurons before social interaction, but not 24 h after social interaction, significantly impaired social discrimination the following day. In addition, we showed that the activation of VTA DA neurons was regulated by the serine/threonine protein kinase liver kinase B1 (Lkb1). Deletion of Lkb1 in VTA DA neurons reduced the frequency of burst firing of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, Lkb1 plays an important role in regulating social behaviors. Both genetic and virus-mediated deletions of Lkb1 in the VTA of adult mice impaired social memory and subsequently attenuated social familiarization. Altogether, our results provide direct evidence linking social memory formation to the activation of VTA DA neurons in mice and illustrate the crucial role of Lkb1 in regulating VTA DA neuron function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
| | - Fengjiao Sun
- Institute of Metabolic and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, China
| | - Guo Xiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
| | - Xuejun Wang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
| | - Xingang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
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15
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Zambon A, Rico LC, Herman M, Gundacker A, Telalovic A, Hartenberger LM, Kuehn R, Romanov RA, Hussaini SA, Harkany T, Pollak DD. Gestational immune activation disrupts hypothalamic neurocircuits of maternal care behavior. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:859-873. [PMID: 35581295 PMCID: PMC9112243 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01602-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Immune activation is one of the most common complications during pregnancy, predominantly evoked by viral infections. Nevertheless, how immune activation affects mother-offspring relationships postpartum remains unknown. Here, by using the polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) model of gestational infection we show that viral-like immune activation at mid-gestation persistently changes hypothalamic neurocircuit parameters in mouse dams and, consequently, is adverse to parenting behavior. Poly I:C-exposed dams favor non-pup-directed exploratory behavior at the expense of pup retrieval. These behavioral deficits are underlain by dendrite pruning and lesser immediate early gene activation in Galanin (Gal)+ neurons with dam-specific transcriptional signatures that reside in the medial preoptic area (mPOA). Reduced activation of an exclusively inhibitory contingent of these distal-projecting Gal+ neurons allows for increased feed-forward inhibition onto putative dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in Poly I:C-exposed dams. Notably, destabilized VTA output specifically accompanies post-pup retrieval epochs. We suggest that gestational immunogenic insults bias both threat processing and reward perception, manifesting as disfavored infant caregiving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Zambon
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Laura Cuenca Rico
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mathieu Herman
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Taub Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anna Gundacker
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amina Telalovic
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisa-Marie Hartenberger
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rebekka Kuehn
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roman A Romanov
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - S Abid Hussaini
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Taub Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tibor Harkany
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela D Pollak
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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16
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Mocellin P, Barnstedt O, Luxem K, Kaneko H, Vieweg S, Henschke JU, Dalügge D, Fuhrmann F, Karpova A, Pakan JMP, Kreutz MR, Mikulovic S, Remy S. A septal-ventral tegmental area circuit drives exploratory behavior. Neuron 2024; 112:1020-1032.e7. [PMID: 38266645 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
To survive, animals need to balance their exploratory drive with their need for safety. Subcortical circuits play an important role in initiating and modulating movement based on external demands and the internal state of the animal; however, how motivation and onset of locomotion are regulated remain largely unresolved. Here, we show that a glutamatergic pathway from the medial septum and diagonal band of Broca (MSDB) to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) controls exploratory locomotor behavior in mice. Using a self-supervised machine learning approach, we found an overrepresentation of exploratory actions, such as sniffing, whisking, and rearing, when this projection is optogenetically activated. Mechanistically, this role relies on glutamatergic MSDB projections that monosynaptically target a subset of both glutamatergic and dopaminergic VTA neurons. Taken together, we identified a glutamatergic basal forebrain to midbrain circuit that initiates locomotor activity and contributes to the expression of exploration-associated behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Mocellin
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior (IMPRS), Bonn 53175, Germany.
| | - Oliver Barnstedt
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Kevin Luxem
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Hiroshi Kaneko
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Silvia Vieweg
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Julia U Henschke
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Dennis Dalügge
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior (IMPRS), Bonn 53175, Germany
| | - Falko Fuhrmann
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Anna Karpova
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39106, Germany
| | - Janelle M P Pakan
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg 39120, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39106, Germany
| | - Michael R Kreutz
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg 39120, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39106, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Magdeburg 39106, Germany
| | - Sanja Mikulovic
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39106, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Magdeburg 39106, Germany
| | - Stefan Remy
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg 39120, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39106, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Magdeburg 39106, Germany.
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17
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Lu X, Xue J, Lai Y, Tang X. Heterogeneity of mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons: From molecular classifications, electrophysiological properties to functional connectivity. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23465. [PMID: 38315491 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302031r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The mesencephalic dopamine (DA) system is composed of neuronal subtypes that are molecularly and functionally distinct, are responsible for specific behaviors, and are closely associated with numerous brain disorders. Existing research has made significant advances in identifying the heterogeneity of mesencephalic DA neurons, which is necessary for understanding their diverse physiological functions and disease susceptibility. Moreover, there is a conflict regarding the electrophysiological properties of the distinct subsets of midbrain DA neurons. This review aimed to elucidate recent developments in the heterogeneity of midbrain DA neurons, including subpopulation categorization, electrophysiological characteristics, and functional connectivity to provide new strategies for accurately identifying distinct subtypes of midbrain DA neurons and investigating the underlying mechanisms of these neurons in various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaying Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Jinhua Xue
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Yudong Lai
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Xiaolu Tang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
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18
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Elder TR, Turner JR. Nicotine use disorder and Neuregulin 3: Opportunities for precision medicine. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2024; 99:387-404. [PMID: 38467488 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Nicotine use disorder remains a major public health emergency despite years of trumpeting the consequences of smoking. This is likely due to the complex interplay of genetics and nicotine exposure across the lifespan of these individuals. Genetics influence all aspects of life, including complex disorders such as nicotine use disorder. This review first highlights the critical neurocircuitry underlying nicotine dependence and withdrawal, and then describes the cellular signaling mechanisms involved. Finally, current genetic, genomic, and transcriptomic evidence for new drug development of smoking cessation aids is discussed, with a focus on the Neuregulin 3 Signaling Pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor R Elder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Jill R Turner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY, United States.
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19
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Zhang JB, Wang F, Tang YT, Pang MZ, Li D, Liu CF. Inhibition of GluN2D-Containing NMDA Receptors Protects Dopaminergic Neurons against 6-OHDA-Induced Neurotoxicity via Activating ERK/NRF2/HO-1 Signaling. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:572-581. [PMID: 38277219 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal glutamate signaling is implicated in the heightened vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD). NMDA receptors are ion-gated glutamate receptors with high calcium permeability, and their GluN2D subunits are prominently distributed in the basal ganglia and brainstem nuclei. Previous studies have reported that dopamine depletion led to the dysfunctions of GluN2D-containing NMDA receptors in PD animal models. However, it remains unknown whether selective modulation of GluN2D could protect dopaminergic neurons against neurotoxicity in PD. In this study, we found that allosteric activation of GluN2D-containing NMDA receptors decreased the cell viability of MES23.5 dopaminergic cells and the GluN2D inhibitor, QNZ46, showed antioxidant effects and significantly relieved apoptosis in 6-OHDA-treated cells. Meanwhile, we demonstrated that QNZ46 might act via activation of the ERK/NRF2/HO-1 pathway. We also verified that QNZ46 could rescue abnormal behaviors and attenuate dopaminergic cell loss in a 6-OHDA-lesioned rat model of PD. Although the precise mechanisms underlying the efficacy of QNZ46 in vivo remain elusive, the inhibition of the GluN2D subunit should be a considerable way to treat PD. More GluN2D-selective drugs, which present minimal side effects and broad therapeutic windows, need to be developed for PD treatment in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Bao Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Fen Wang
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Yu-Ting Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Meng-Zhu Pang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Neurology, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, China
| | - Chun-Feng Liu
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
- Department of Neurology, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, China
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20
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Cavallo A, Neumann WJ. Dopaminergic reinforcement in the motor system: Implications for Parkinson's disease and deep brain stimulation. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:457-472. [PMID: 38178558 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Millions of people suffer from dopamine-related disorders spanning disturbances in movement, cognition and emotion. These changes are often attributed to changes in striatal dopamine function. Thus, understanding how dopamine signalling in the striatum and basal ganglia shapes human behaviour is fundamental to advancing the treatment of affected patients. Dopaminergic neurons innervate large-scale brain networks, and accordingly, many different roles for dopamine signals have been proposed, such as invigoration of movement and tracking of reward contingencies. The canonical circuit architecture of cortico-striatal loops sparks the question, of whether dopamine signals in the basal ganglia serve an overarching computational principle. Such a holistic understanding of dopamine functioning could provide new insights into symptom generation in psychiatry to neurology. Here, we review the perspective that dopamine could bidirectionally control neural population dynamics, increasing or decreasing their strength and likelihood to reoccur in the future, a process previously termed neural reinforcement. We outline how the basal ganglia pathways could drive strengthening and weakening of circuit dynamics and discuss the implication of this hypothesis on the understanding of motor signs of Parkinson's disease (PD), the most frequent dopaminergic disorder. We propose that loss of dopamine in PD may lead to a pathological brain state where repetition of neural activity leads to weakening and instability, possibly explanatory for the fact that movement in PD deteriorates with repetition. Finally, we speculate on how therapeutic interventions such as deep brain stimulation may be able to reinstate reinforcement signals and thereby improve treatment strategies for PD in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Cavallo
- Movement Disorder and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolf-Julian Neumann
- Movement Disorder and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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21
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White JD, Minto MS, Willis C, Quach BC, Han S, Tao R, Deep-Soboslay A, Zillich L, Clark SL, van den Oord EJCG, Hyde TM, Mayfield RD, Webb BT, Johnson EO, Kleinman JE, Bierut LJ, Hancock DB. Alcohol Use Disorder-Associated DNA Methylation in the Nucleus Accumbens and Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.01.17.23300238. [PMID: 38293028 PMCID: PMC10827272 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.17.23300238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has a profound public health impact. However, understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of AUD remain limited. Here, we interrogate AUD-associated DNA methylation (DNAm) changes within and across addiction-relevant brain regions: the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Methods Illumina HumanMethylation EPIC array data from 119 decedents of European ancestry (61 cases, 58 controls) were analyzed using robust linear regression, with adjustment for technical and biological variables. Associations were characterized using integrative analyses of public gene regulatory data and published genetic and epigenetic studies. We additionally tested for brain region-shared and -specific associations using mixed effects modeling and assessed implications of these results using public gene expression data. Results At a false discovery rate ≤ 0.05, we identified 53 CpGs significantly associated with AUD status for NAc and 31 CpGs for DLPFC. In a meta-analysis across the regions, we identified an additional 21 CpGs associated with AUD, for a total of 105 unique AUD-associated CpGs (120 genes). AUD-associated CpGs were enriched in histone marks that tag active promoters and our strongest signals were specific to a single brain region. Of the 120 genes, 23 overlapped with previous genetic associations for substance use behaviors; all others represent novel associations. Conclusions Our findings identify AUD-associated methylation signals, the majority of which are specific within NAc or DLPFC. Some signals may constitute predisposing genetic and epigenetic variation, though more work is needed to further disentangle the neurobiological gene regulatory differences associated with AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie D. White
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | | | - Caryn Willis
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | - Bryan C. Quach
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | | | - Ran Tao
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD)
| | | | - Lea Zillich
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shaunna L. Clark
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Texas A&M University
| | | | | | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Bradley T. Webb
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | - Eric O. Johnson
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
- Fellow Program, RTI International
| | | | - Laura J. Bierut
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Dana B. Hancock
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
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22
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Privitera CM, Noah S, Carney T, Klein SA, Lenartowicz A, Hinshaw SP, McCracken JT, Nigg JT, Karalunas SL, Reid RC, Oliva MT, Betts SS, Simpson GV. Pupillary dilations in a Target/Distractor visual task paradigm and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neurosci Lett 2024; 818:137556. [PMID: 37951300 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
ADHD is a neurocognitive disorder characterized by attention difficulties, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often persisting into adulthood with substantial personal and societal consequences. Despite the importance of neurophysiological assessment and treatment monitoring tests, their availability outside of research settings remains limited. Cognitive neuroscience investigations have identified distinct components associated with ADHD, including deficits in sustained attention, inefficient enhancement of attended Targets, and altered suppression of ignored Distractors. In this study, we examined pupil activity in control and ADHD subjects during a sustained visual attention task specifically designed to evaluate the mechanisms underlying Target enhancement and Distractor suppression. Our findings revealed some distinguishing factors between the two groups which we discuss in light of their neurobiological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio M Privitera
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, United States.
| | - Sean Noah
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, United States; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, United States
| | - Thom Carney
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, United States
| | - Stanley A Klein
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, United States
| | - Agatha Lenartowicz
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Stephen P Hinshaw
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, United States
| | - James T McCracken
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Joel T Nigg
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, United States
| | - Sarah L Karalunas
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Rory C Reid
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Mercedes T Oliva
- Division of Social Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, United States
| | - Samantha S Betts
- Graduate Program in Neurosciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
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23
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Rasmi Y, Shokati A, Hatamkhani S, Farnamian Y, Naderi R, Jalali L. Assessment of the relationship between the dopaminergic pathway and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, with related neuropathological features, and potential therapeutic approaches in COVID-19 infection. Rev Med Virol 2024; 34:e2506. [PMID: 38282395 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Dopamine is a known catecholamine neurotransmitter involved in several physiological processes, including motor control, motivation, reward, cognition, and immune function. Dopamine receptors are widely distributed throughout the nervous system and in immune cells. Several viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus and Japanese encephalitis virus, can use dopaminergic receptors to replicate in the nervous system and are involved in viral neuropathogenesis. In addition, studies suggest that dopaminergic receptors may play a role in the progression and pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. When SARS-CoV-2 binds to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors on the surface of neuronal cells, the spike protein of the virus can bind to dopaminergic receptors on neighbouring cells to accelerate its life cycle and exacerbate neurological symptoms. In addition, recent research has shown that dopamine is an important regulator of the immune-neuroendocrine system. Most immune cells express dopamine receptors and other dopamine-related proteins, indicating the importance of dopaminergic immune regulation. The increase in dopamine concentration during SARS-CoV2 infection may reduce immunity (innate and adaptive) that promotes viral spread, which could lead to neuronal damage. In addition, dopaminergic signalling in the nervous system may be affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. COVID -19 can cause various neurological symptoms as it interacts with the immune system. One possible treatment strategy for COVID -19 patients could be the use of dopamine antagonists. To fully understand how to protect the neurological system and immune cells from the virus, we need to study the pathophysiology of the dopamine system in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Rasmi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ameneh Shokati
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Hatamkhani
- Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Farnamian
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Roya Naderi
- Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ladan Jalali
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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24
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Rincón-Cortés M, Grace AA. Sex-dependent emergence of prepubertal social dysfunction and augmented dopamine activity in a neurodevelopmental rodent model relevant for schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2023; 262:32-39. [PMID: 37922841 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2023.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorder that often emerges in adolescence, is characterized by social dysfunction, and has an earlier onset in men. These features have been replicated in rats exposed to the mitotoxin methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) on gestational day (GD) 17, which as adults exhibit behavioral impairments and dopamine (DA) system changes consistent with a schizophrenia-relevant rodent model. In humans, social withdrawal is a negative symptom that often precedes disease onset and DA system dysfunction and is more pronounced in men. Children and adolescents at high-risk for schizophrenia exhibit social deficits prior to psychotic symptoms (i.e., prodromal phase), which can be used as a predictive marker for future psychopathology. Adult MAM rats also exhibit deficient social interaction, but less is known regarding the emergence of social dysfunction in this model, whether it varies by sex, and whether it is linked to disrupted DA function. To this end, we characterized the ontogeny of social and DA dysfunction in male and female MAM rats during the prepubertal period (postnatal days 33-43) and found sex-specific changes in motivated social behaviors (play, approach) and DA function. Male MAM rats exhibited reduced social approach and increased VTA DA neuron activity compared to saline-treated (SAL) males, whereas female MAM rats exhibited enhanced play behaviors compared to SAL females but no changes in social approach or VTA population activity during this period. These findings demonstrate sex differences in the emergence of social and DA deficits in the MAM model, in which females exhibit delayed emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Millie Rincón-Cortés
- Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, United States.
| | - Anthony A Grace
- Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, United States
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25
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Garau C, Hayes J, Chiacchierini G, McCutcheon JE, Apergis-Schoute J. Involvement of A13 dopaminergic neurons in prehensile movements but not reward in the rat. Curr Biol 2023; 33:4786-4797.e4. [PMID: 37816347 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-containing neurons of the dopamine (DA) cell group A13 are well positioned to impact known DA-related functions as their descending projections innervate target regions that regulate vigilance, sensory integration, and motor execution. Despite this connectivity, little is known regarding the functionality of A13-DA circuits. Using TH-specific loss-of-function methodology and techniques to monitor population activity in transgenic rats in vivo, we investigated the contribution of A13-DA neurons in reward and movement-related actions. Our work demonstrates a role for A13-DA neurons in grasping and handling of objects but not reward. A13-DA neurons responded strongly when animals grab and manipulate food items, whereas their inactivation or degeneration prevented animals from successfully doing so-a deficit partially attributed to a reduction in grip strength. By contrast, there was no relation between A13-DA activity and food-seeking behavior when animals were tested on a reward-based task that did not include a reaching/grasping response. Motivation for food was unaffected, as goal-directed behavior for food items was in general intact following A13 neuronal inactivation/degeneration. An anatomical investigation confirmed that A13-DA neurons project to the superior colliculus (SC) and also demonstrated a novel A13-DA projection to the reticular formation (RF). These results establish a functional role for A13-DA neurons in prehensile actions that are uncoupled from the motivational factors that contribute to the initiation of forelimb movements and help position A13-DA circuits into the functional framework regarding centrally located DA populations and their ability to coordinate movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Garau
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 9HN, UK.
| | - Jessica Hayes
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 9HN, UK
| | - Giulia Chiacchierini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 9HN, UK; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, La Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - James E McCutcheon
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 9HN, UK; Department of Psychology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Huginbakken 32, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - John Apergis-Schoute
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 9HN, UK; Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK.
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26
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Pyatha S, Kim H, Lee D, Kim K. Co-exposure to lead, mercury, and cadmium induces neurobehavioral impairments in mice by interfering with dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission in the striatum. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1265864. [PMID: 38026429 PMCID: PMC10662100 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1265864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans are exposed to lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) through various routes, including drinking water, and such exposure can lead to a range of toxicological effects. However, few studies have investigated the toxic effects of exposure to mixtures of metals, particularly in relation to neurotoxicity. In this study, 7-week-old male mice were exposed to Pb, Hg, and Cd individually or in combination through their drinking water for 28 days. The mice exposed to the metal mixture exhibited significantly reduced motor coordination and impaired learning and memory abilities compared to the control group and each of the single metal exposure groups, indicating a higher level of neurotoxicity of the metal mixture. The dopamine content in the striatum was significantly lower in the metal mixture exposure group than in the single metal exposure groups and the control group. Furthermore, compared to the control group, the metal mixture exposure group showed a significantly lower expression level of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and significantly higher expression levels of dopamine transporter (DAT), tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1), and serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT). Notably, there were no significant differences in SERT expression between the single metal exposure groups and the control group, but SERT expression was significantly higher in the metal mixture exposure group than in the single metal and control groups. These findings suggest that the key proteins involved in the synthesis and reuptake of dopamine (TH and DAT, respectively), as well as in the synthesis and reuptake of serotonin (TPH1 and SERT, respectively), play crucial roles in the neurotoxic effects associated with exposure to metal mixtures. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that simultaneous exposure to different metals can impact key enzymes involved in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission processes, leading to disruptions in dopamine and serotonin homeostasis and consequently a range of detrimental neurobehavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kisok Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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27
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Hernandez G, Kouwenhoven WM, Poirier E, Lebied K, Lévesque D, Rompré PP. Dorsal raphe stimulation relays a reward signal to the ventral tegmental area via GluN2C NMDA receptors. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293564. [PMID: 37930965 PMCID: PMC10627466 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glutamate relays a reward signal from the dorsal raphe (DR) to the ventral tegmental area (VTA). However, the role of the different subtypes of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors is complex and not clearly understood. Therefore, we measured NMDA receptors subunits expression in limbic brain areas. In addition, we studied the effects of VTA down-regulation of GluN2C NMDA receptor on the reward signal that arises from DR electrical stimulation. METHODS Using qPCR, we identified the relative composition of the different Grin2a-d subunits of the NMDA receptors in several brain areas. Then, we used fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to evaluate the colocalization of Grin2c and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) mRNA in VTA neurons. To assess the role of GluN2C in brain stimulation reward, we downregulated this receptor using small interfering RNA (siRNA) in rats self-stimulating for electrical pulses delivered to the DR. To delineate further the specific role of GluN2C in relaying the reward signal, we pharmacologically altered the function of VTA NMDA receptors by bilaterally microinjecting the NMDA receptor antagonist PPPA. RESULTS We identified GluN2C as the most abundant subunit of the NMDA receptor expressed in the VTA. FISH revealed that about 50% of TH-positive neurons colocalize with Grin2c transcript. siRNA manipulation produced a selective down-regulation of the GluN2C protein subunit and a significant reduction in brain stimulation reward. Interestingly, PPPA enhanced brain stimulation reward, but only in rats that received the nonactive RNA sequence. CONCLUSION The present results suggest that VTA glutamate neurotransmission relays a reward signal initiated by DR stimulation by acting on GluN2C NMDA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Hernandez
- Département de Neurosciences (Faculté de Médecine), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Willemieke M. Kouwenhoven
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie (Faculté de Médecine), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Emmanuelle Poirier
- Département de Neurosciences (Faculté de Médecine), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Karim Lebied
- Département de Neurosciences (Faculté de Médecine), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Lévesque
- Département de Pharmacie (Faculté de Pharmacie), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre-Paul Rompré
- Département de Neurosciences (Faculté de Médecine), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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28
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Carnes MU, Quach BC, Zhou L, Han S, Tao R, Mandal M, Deep-Soboslay A, Marks JA, Page GP, Maher BS, Jaffe AE, Won H, Bierut LJ, Hyde TM, Kleinman JE, Johnson EO, Hancock DB. Smoking-informed methylation and expression QTLs in human brain and colocalization with smoking-associated genetic loci. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.09.18.23295431. [PMID: 37790540 PMCID: PMC10543041 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.18.23295431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Smoking is a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. Smoking is heritable, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of smoking behaviors have identified hundreds of significant loci. Most GWAS-identified variants are noncoding with unknown neurobiological effects. We used genome-wide genotype, DNA methylation, and RNA sequencing data in postmortem human nucleus accumbens (NAc) to identify cis-methylation/expression quantitative trait loci (meQTLs/eQTLs), investigate variant-by-cigarette smoking interactions across the genome, and overlay QTL evidence at smoking GWAS-identified loci to evaluate their regulatory potential. Active smokers (N=52) and nonsmokers (N=171) were defined based on cotinine biomarker levels and next-of-kin reporting. We simultaneously tested variant and variant-by-smoking interaction effects on methylation and expression, separately, adjusting for biological and technical covariates and using a two-stage multiple testing approach with eigenMT and Bonferroni corrections. We found >2 million significant meQTL variants (padj<0.05) corresponding to 41,695 unique CpGs. Results were largely driven by main effects; five meQTLs, mapping to NUDT12, FAM53B, RNF39, and ADRA1B, showed a significant interaction with smoking. We found 57,683 significant eQTLs for 958 unique eGenes (padj<0.05) and no smoking interactions. Colocalization analyses identified loci with smoking-associated GWAS variants that overlapped meQTLs/eQTLs, suggesting that these heritable factors may influence smoking behaviors through functional effects on methylation/expression. One locus containing MUSTIN1 and ITIH4 colocalized across all data types (GWAS + meQTL + eQTL). In this first genome-wide meQTL map in the human NAc, the enriched overlap with smoking GWAS-identified genetic loci provides evidence that gene regulation in the brain helps explain the neurobiology of smoking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Ulmer Carnes
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Bryan C. Quach
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Linran Zhou
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Shizhong Han
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ran Tao
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Meisha Mandal
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | | | - Jesse A. Marks
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Grier P. Page
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
- Fellow Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Brion S. Maher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrew E. Jaffe
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hyejung Won
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Laura J. Bierut
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Thomas M. Hyde
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joel E. Kleinman
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD), Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Eric O. Johnson
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
- Fellow Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Dana B. Hancock
- Genomics and Translational Research Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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29
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Lai CW, Chang CH. Pharmacological activation of the amygdala, but not single prolonged footshock-induced acute stress, interferes with cue-induced motivation toward food rewards in rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1252868. [PMID: 37781505 PMCID: PMC10538645 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1252868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the face of threats, animals adapt their behaviors to cope with the situation. Under such circumstances, irrelevant behaviors are usually suppressed. In this study, we examined whether food-seeking motivation would decrease under activation of the amygdala, an important nucleus in the regulation of stress response in the central nervous system, or after a physical acute stress session. In Experiment 1, we pharmacologically activated the basolateral nucleus (BLA) or the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) before a cue-induced reinstatement test in rats. Our results showed that activation of the BLA or the CeA abolished cue-induced motivation toward food rewards, while locomotor activity and free food intake were not affected. In Experiments 2 and 3, we further assessed anxiety and despair levels, as well as cue-induced reinstatement, after a single prolonged footshock-induced acute stress in rats. Behaviorally, acute stress did not affect anxiety level, despair level, or cue-induced motivation toward food rewards. Physiologically, there was no difference in cellular activities of the amygdala immediately after acute stress. To conclude, our results suggested that pharmacological activation of the amygdala decreased cue-induced motivation toward food reward. However, physiological acute stress did not immediately interfere with the negative emotions, motivation, or amygdala activities of the animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Wen Lai
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chun-hui Chang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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Yang K, McLaughlin I, Shaw JK, Quijano-Cardé N, Dani JA, De Biasi M. CHRNA5 gene variation affects the response of VTA dopaminergic neurons during chronic nicotine exposure and withdrawal. Neuropharmacology 2023; 235:109547. [PMID: 37116611 PMCID: PMC10249248 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Nicotine is the principal psychoactive component in tobacco that drives addiction through its action on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). The nicotinic receptor gene CHRNA5, which encodes the α5 subunit, is associated with nicotine use and dependence. In humans, the CHRNA5 missense variant rs16969968 (G > A) is associated with increased risk for nicotine dependence and other smoking-related phenotypes. In rodents, α5-containing nAChRs in dopamine (DA) neurons within the ventral tegmental area (VTA) powerfully modulate nicotine reward and reinforcement. Although the neuroadaptations caused by long-term nicotine exposure are being actively delineated at both the synaptic and behavioral levels, the contribution of α5-containing nAChRs to the cellular adaptations associated with long-term nicotine exposure remain largely unknown. To gain insight into the mechanisms behind the influence of α5-containing nAChRs and the rs16969968 polymorphism on nicotine use and dependence, we used electrophysiological approaches to examine changes in nAChR function arising in VTA neurons during chronic nicotine exposure and multiple stages of nicotine withdrawal. Our results demonstrate that CHRNA5 mutation leads to profound changes in VTA nAChR function at baseline, during chronic nicotine exposure, and during short-term and prolonged withdrawal. Whereas nAChR function was suppressed in DA neurons from WT mice undergoing withdrawal relative to drug-naïve or nicotine-drinking mice, α5-null mice exhibited an increase in nAChR function during nicotine exposure that persisted throughout 5-10 weeks of withdrawal. Re-expressing the hypofunctional rs16969968 CHRNA5 variant in α5-null VTA DA neurons did not rescue the phenotype, with α5-SNP neurons displaying a similar increased response to ACh during nicotine exposure and early stages of withdrawal. These results demonstrate the importance of VTA α5-nAChRs in the response to nicotine and implicate them in the time course of withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kechun Yang
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ian McLaughlin
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jessica K Shaw
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Natalia Quijano-Cardé
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Pharmacology Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - John A Dani
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Mariella De Biasi
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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31
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Kanaan AS, Yu D, Metere R, Schäfer A, Schlumm T, Bilgic B, Anwander A, Mathews CA, Scharf JM, Müller-Vahl K, Möller HE. Convergent imaging-transcriptomic evidence for disturbed iron homeostasis in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 185:106252. [PMID: 37536382 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a neuropsychiatric movement disorder with reported abnormalities in various neurotransmitter systems. Considering the integral role of iron in neurotransmitter synthesis and transport, it is hypothesized that iron exhibits a role in GTS pathophysiology. As a surrogate measure of brain iron, quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) was performed in 28 patients with GTS and 26 matched controls. Significant susceptibility reductions in the patients, consistent with reduced local iron content, were obtained in subcortical regions known to be implicated in GTS. Regression analysis revealed a significant negative association of tic scores and striatal susceptibility. To interrogate genetic mechanisms that may drive these reductions, spatially specific relationships between susceptibility and gene-expression patterns from the Allen Human Brain Atlas were assessed. Correlations in the striatum were enriched for excitatory, inhibitory, and modulatory neurochemical signaling mechanisms in the motor regions, mitochondrial processes driving ATP production and iron‑sulfur cluster biogenesis in the executive subdivision, and phosphorylation-related mechanisms affecting receptor expression and long-term potentiation in the limbic subdivision. This link between susceptibility reductions and normative transcriptional profiles suggests that disruptions in iron regulatory mechanisms are involved in GTS pathophysiology and may lead to pervasive abnormalities in mechanisms regulated by iron-containing enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Seif Kanaan
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Dongmei Yu
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Riccardo Metere
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Schäfer
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany; Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Diagnostic Imaging, Magnetic Resonance, Research and Development, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Torsten Schlumm
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Berkin Bilgic
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alfred Anwander
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Carol A Mathews
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jeremiah M Scharf
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten Müller-Vahl
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Harald E Möller
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.
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32
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Senba E, Kami K. Exercise therapy for chronic pain: How does exercise change the limbic brain function? NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2023; 14:100143. [PMID: 38099274 PMCID: PMC10719519 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2023.100143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
We are exposed to various external and internal threats which might hurt us. The role of taking flexible and appropriate actions against threats is played by "the limbic system" and at the heart of it there is the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens (brain reward system). Pain-related fear causes excessive excitation of amygdala, which in turn causes the suppression of medial prefrontal cortex, leading to chronification of pain. Since the limbic system of chronic pain patients is functionally impaired, they are maladaptive to their situations, unable to take goal-directed behavior and are easily caught by fear-avoidance thinking. We describe the neural mechanisms how exercise activates the brain reward system and enables chronic pain patients to take goal-directed behavior and overcome fear-avoidance thinking. A key to getting out from chronic pain state is to take advantage of the behavioral switching function of the basal nucleus of amygdala. We show that exercise activates positive neurons in this nucleus which project to the nucleus accumbens and promote reward behavior. We also describe fear conditioning and extinction are affected by exercise. In chronic pain patients, the fear response to pain is enhanced and the extinction of fear memories is impaired, so it is difficult to get out of "fear-avoidance thinking". Prolonged avoidance of movement and physical inactivity exacerbate pain and have detrimental effects on the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. Based on the recent findings on multiple bran networks, we propose a well-balanced exercise prescription considering the adherence and pacing of exercise practice. We conclude that therapies targeting the mesocortico-limbic system, such as exercise therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, may become promising tools in the fight against chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiko Senba
- Department of Physical Therapy, Osaka Yukioka College of Health Science, 1-1-41 Sojiji, Ibaraki-City, Osaka 567-0801, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, 811-1 Kimiidera, Wakayama City, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan
| | - Katsuya Kami
- Department of Rehabilitation, Wakayama Faculty of Health Care Sciences, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care, 2252 Nakanoshima, Wakayama City, Wakayama 640-8392, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, 811-1 Kimiidera, Wakayama City, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan
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Perez SM, Elam HB, McCoy AM, Boley AM, Eassa NE, Lodge DJ. Congenital blindness does not protect against a schizophrenia-related phenotype in rodents. Schizophr Res 2023; 258:1-8. [PMID: 37364392 PMCID: PMC10529675 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2023.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 1950, Drs. Chevigny and Braverman authored a book about people's attitudes and prejudices toward the blind, noting that out of the thousands of schizophrenia patients they and others had treated, not one was blind. This led some to the intriguing hypothesis that congenital blindness may provide protection against schizophrenia. In this study, we directly examined whether congenital blindness protects against a schizophrenia-related phenotype in the methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) rodent model. DESIGN Enucleation surgeries were performed on pups of MAM- or saline-treated rats on post-natal day 10. Once pups reached adulthood, male and female rats were evaluated for schizophrenia-like phenotypes using behavioral and electrophysiological measures. Consistent with previous work, MAM-treated rats display elevated dopamine neuron population activity, deficits in pre-pulse inhibition of startle, and hypersensitivity to psychomotor stimulants. RESULTS Blindness did not protect against any of the MAM-induced phenotypes. Surprisingly, blindness in saline-treated rats caused changes in behavior and dopamine neuron activity. To examine the circadian rhythms of enucleated rats, we performed non-invasive measurements of corticosterone, a steroid hormone known to vary across the light/dark period, revealing blind rats display aberrant (non-cycling) corticosterone levels. CONCLUSIONS Alterations in dopamine neuron activity and associated behaviors observed in blind rats are likely secondary to aberrant circadian regulation. This is the first preclinical study examining whether congenital blindness protects against a schizophrenia-like phenotype. While support of this hypothesis would have led to novel avenues of research and potential novel therapies, the results of current study suggest that blindness does not protect against schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Perez
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Hannah B Elam
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Alexandra M McCoy
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Angela M Boley
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Nicole E Eassa
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Daniel J Lodge
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Rodríguez-Manzo G, Canseco-Alba A. The endogenous cannabinoid system modulates male sexual behavior expression. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1198077. [PMID: 37324524 PMCID: PMC10264596 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1198077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a key neuromodulatory role in the brain. Main features of endocannabinoids (eCBs) are that they are produced on demand, in response to enhanced neuronal activity, act as retrograde messengers, and participate in the induction of brain plasticity processes. Sexual activity is a motivated behavior and therefore, the mesolimbic dopaminergic system (MSL) plays a central role in the control of its appetitive component (drive to engage in copulation). In turn, copulation activates mesolimbic dopamine neurons and repeated copulation produces the continuous activation of the MSL system. Sustained sexual activity leads to the achievement of sexual satiety, which main outcome is the transient transformation of sexually active male rats into sexually inhibited animals. Thus, 24 h after copulation to satiety, the sexually satiated males exhibit a decreased sexual motivation and do not respond to the presence of a sexually receptive female with sexual activity. Interestingly, blockade of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) during the copulation to satiety process, interferes with both the appearance of the long-lasting sexual inhibition and the decrease in sexual motivation in the sexually satiated males. This effect is reproduced when blocking CB1R at the ventral tegmental area evidencing the involvement of MSL eCBs in the induction of this sexual inhibitory state. Here we review the available evidence regarding the effects of cannabinoids, including exogenously administered eCBs, on male rodent sexual behavior of both sexually competent animals and rat sub populations spontaneously showing copulatory deficits, considered useful to model some human male sexual dysfunctions. We also include the effects of cannabis preparations on human male sexual activity. Finally, we review the role played by the ECS in the control of male sexual behavior expression with the aid of the sexual satiety phenomenon. Sexual satiety appears as a suitable model for the study of the relationship between eCB signaling, MSL synaptic plasticity and the modulation of male sexual motivation under physiological conditions that might be useful for the understanding of MSL functioning, eCB-mediated plasticity and their relationship with motivational processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav-Sede Sur), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ana Canseco-Alba
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Formación Reticular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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35
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Kanaan AS, Yu D, Metere R, Schäfer A, Schlumm T, Bilgic B, Anwander A, Mathews CA, Scharf JM, Müller-Vahl K, Möller HE. Convergent imaging-transcriptomic evidence for disturbed iron homeostasis in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.05.15.23289978. [PMID: 37292704 PMCID: PMC10246056 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.15.23289978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a neuropsychiatric movement disorder with reported abnormalities in various neurotransmitter systems. Considering the integral role of iron in neurotransmitter synthesis and transport, it is hypothesized that iron exhibits a role in GTS pathophysiology. As a surrogate measure of brain iron, quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) was performed in 28 patients with GTS and 26 matched controls. Significant susceptibility reductions in the patient cohort, consistent with reduced local iron content, were obtained in subcortical regions known to be implicated in GTS. Regression analysis revealed a significant negative association of tic scores and striatal susceptibility. To interrogate genetic mechanisms that may drive these reductions, spatially specific relationships between susceptibility and gene-expression patterns extracted from the Allen Human Brain Atlas were assessed. Correlations in the striatum were enriched for excitatory, inhibitory, and modulatory neurochemical signaling mechanisms in the motor regions, mitochondrial processes driving ATP production and iron-sulfur cluster biogenesis in the executive subdivision, and phosphorylation-related mechanisms that affect receptor expression and long-term potentiation. This link between susceptibility reductions and normative transcriptional profiles suggests that disruptions in iron regulatory mechanisms are involved in GTS pathophysiology and may lead to pervasive abnormalities in mechanisms regulated by iron-containing enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Seif Kanaan
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Dongmei Yu
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Riccardo Metere
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Schäfer
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Diagnostic Imaging, Magnetic Resonance, Research and Development, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Torsten Schlumm
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Berkin Bilgic
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alfred Anwander
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Carol A. Mathews
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jeremiah M. Scharf
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten Müller-Vahl
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Harald E. Möller
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
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36
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Liu A, Cheng Y, Huang J. Neurons innervating both the central amygdala and the ventral tegmental area encode different emotional valences. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1178693. [PMID: 37214399 PMCID: PMC10196062 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1178693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammals are frequently exposed to various environmental stimuli, and to determine whether to approach or avoid these stimuli, the brain must assign emotional valence to them. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the neural circuitry mechanisms involved in the mammalian brain's processing of emotional valence. Although the central amygdala (CeA) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA) individually encode different or even opposing emotional valences, it is unclear whether there are common upstream input neurons that innervate and control both these regions, and it is interesting to know what emotional valences of these common upstream neurons. In this study, we identify three major brain regions containing neurons that project to both the CeA and the VTA, including the posterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (pBNST), the pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus (PPTg), and the anterior part of the basomedial amygdala (BMA). We discover that these neural populations encode distinct emotional valences. Activating neurons in the pBNST produces positive valence, enabling mice to overcome their innate avoidance behavior. Conversely, activating neurons in the PPTg produces negative valence and induces anxiety-like behaviors in mice. Neuronal activity in the BMA, on the other hand, does not influence valence processing. Thus, our study has discovered three neural populations that project to both the CeA and the VTA and has revealed the distinct emotional valences these populations encode. These results provide new insights into the neurological mechanisms involved in emotional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Liu
- Center for Brain Science of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuelin Cheng
- Jeffrey Trail Middle School, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Ju Huang
- Center for Brain Science of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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37
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Nunes EJ, Kebede N, Haight JL, Foster DJ, Lindsley CW, Conn PJ, Addy NA. Ventral Tegmental Area M5 Muscarinic Receptors Mediate Effort-Choice Responding and Nucleus Accumbens Dopamine in a Sex-Specific Manner . J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 385:146-156. [PMID: 36828630 PMCID: PMC10108441 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Optimization of effort-related choices is impaired in depressive disorders. Acetylcholine (ACh) and dopamine (DA) are linked to depressive disorders, and modulation of ACh tone in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) affects mood-related behavioral responses in rats. However, it is unknown if VTA ACh mediates effort-choice behaviors. Using a task of effort-choice, rats can choose to lever press on a fixed-ratio 5 (FR5) schedule for a more-preferred food or consume freely available, less-preferred food. VTA administration of physostigmine (1 μg and 2 μg/side), a cholinesterase inhibitor, reduced FR5 responding for the more-preferred food while leaving consumption of the less-preferred food intact. VTA infusion of the M5 muscarinic receptor negative allosteric modulator VU6000181 (3 μM, 10 μM, 30 μM/side) did not affect lever pressing or chow consumption. However, VU6000181 (30 μM/side) coadministration with physostigmine (2 μg/side) attenuated physostigmine-induced decrease in lever pressing in female and male rats and significantly elevated lever pressing above vehicle baseline levels in male rats. In in vivo voltammetry experiments, VTA infusion of combined physostigmine and VU6000181 did not significantly alter evoked phasic DA release in the nucleus accumbens core (NAc) in female rats. In male rats, combined VTA infusion of physostigmine and VU6000181 increased phasic evoked DA release in the NAc compared with vehicle, physostigmine, or VU6000181 infusion alone. These data indicate a critical role and potential sex differences of VTA M5 receptors in mediating VTA cholinergic effects on effort choice behavior and regulation of DA release. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Effort-choice impairments are observed in depressive disorders, which are often treatment resistant to currently available thymoleptics. The role of ventral tegmental area (VTA) acetylcholine muscarinic M5 receptors, in a preclinical model of effort-choice behavior, is examined. Using the selective negative allosteric modulator of the M5 receptor VU6000181, we show the role of VTA M5 receptors on effort-choice and regulation of dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens core. This study supports M5 receptors as therapeutic targets for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
| | - Nardos Kebede
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
| | - Joshua L Haight
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
| | - Daniel J Foster
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
| | - Craig W Lindsley
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
| | - P Jeffrey Conn
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
| | - Nii A Addy
- Department of Psychiatry (E.J.N., N.K., J.L.H., N.A.A.) and Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (E.J.N.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut (J.L.H.); Departments of Pharmacology (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.) and Chemistry (C.W.L.) and Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (D.J.F., C.W.L., P.J.C.), Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee (D.J.F., P.J.C.); and Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (N.A.A.)
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Perez SM, Boley AM, McCoy AM, Lodge DJ. Aberrant Dopamine System Function in the Ferrous Amyloid Buthionine (FAB) Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7196. [PMID: 37108357 PMCID: PMC10138591 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antipsychotics increase the risk of death in elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thus, there is an immediate need for novel therapies to treat comorbid psychosis in AD. Psychosis has been attributed to a dysregulation of the dopamine system and is associated with aberrant regulation by the hippocampus. Given that the hippocampus is a key site of pathology in AD, we posit that aberrant regulation of the dopamine system may contribute to comorbid psychosis in AD. A ferrous amyloid buthionine (FAB) rodent model was used to model a sporadic form of AD. FAB rats displayed functional hippocampal alterations, which were accompanied by decreases in spontaneous, low-frequency oscillations and increases in the firing rates of putative pyramidal neurons. Additionally, FAB rats exhibited increases in dopamine neuron population activity and augmented responses to the locomotor-inducing effects of MK-801, as is consistent with rodent models of psychosis-like symptomatology. Further, working memory deficits in the Y-maze, consistent with an AD-like phenotype, were observed in FAB rats. These data suggest that the aberrant hippocampal activity observed in AD may contribute to dopamine-dependent psychosis, and that the FAB model may be useful for the investigation of comorbid psychosis related to AD. Understanding the pathophysiology that leads to comorbid psychosis in AD will ultimately lead to the discovery of novel targets for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M. Perez
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (A.M.B.); (D.J.L.)
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Angela M. Boley
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (A.M.B.); (D.J.L.)
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Alexandra M. McCoy
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (A.M.B.); (D.J.L.)
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Daniel J. Lodge
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (A.M.B.); (D.J.L.)
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Division, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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Vickers BD, Seidler RD, Stansfield RB, Weissman DH, Preston SD. Altruistic responses to the most vulnerable involve sensorimotor processes. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1140986. [PMID: 36970269 PMCID: PMC10036353 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1140986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionWhy do people help strangers? Prior research suggests that empathy motivates bystanders to respond to victims in distress. However, this work has revealed relatively little about the role of the motor system in human altruism, even though altruism is thought to have originated as an active, physical response to close others in immediate need. We therefore investigated whether a motor preparatory response contributes to costly helping.MethodsTo accomplish this objective, we contrasted three charity conditions that were more versus less likely to elicit an active motor response, based on the Altruistic Response Model. These conditions described charities that (1) aided neonates versus adults, (2) aided victims requiring immediate versus preparatory support, and (3) provided heroic versus nurturant aid. We hypothesized that observing neonates in immediate need would elicit stronger brain activation in motor-preparatory regions.ResultsConsistent with an evolutionary, caregiving-based theory of altruism, participants donated the most to charities that provided neonates with immediate, nurturant aid. Critically, this three-way donation interaction was associated with increased BOLD signal and gray matter volume in motor-preparatory regions, which we identified in an independent motor retrieval task.DiscussionThese findings advance the field of altruism by shifting the spotlight from passive emotional states toward action processes that evolved to protect the most vulnerable members of our group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian D. Vickers
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Rachael D. Seidler
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - R. Brent Stansfield
- Department of Medical Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Daniel H. Weissman
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stephanie D. Preston
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Stephanie D. Preston,
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Cardona-Acosta AM, Bolaños-Guzmán CA. Role of the mesolimbic dopamine pathway in the antidepressant effects of ketamine. Neuropharmacology 2023; 225:109374. [PMID: 36516891 PMCID: PMC9839658 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Depression is a complex and highly heterogeneous disorder which diagnosis is based on an exceedingly variable set of clinical symptoms. Current treatments focus almost exclusively on the manipulation of monoamine neurotransmitter systems, but despite considerable efforts, these remain inadequate for a significant proportion of those afflicted by the disorder. The emergence of racemic (R, S)-ketamine as a fast-acting antidepressant has provided an exciting new path for the study of major depressive disorder (MDD) and the search for better therapeutics for its treatment. Previous work suggested that ketamine's mechanism of action is primarily mediated via blockaded of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, however, this is an area of active research and clinical and preclinical evidence now indicate that ketamine acts on multiple systems. The last couple of decades have cemented the mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway's involvement in the pathogenesis of MDD and related mood disorders. Exposure to negative stress dysregulates dopamine neuronal activity disrupting reward and motivational processes resulting in anhedonia (lack of pleasure), a hallmark symptom of depression. Although the mechanism(s) underlying ketamine's antidepressant activity continue to be elucidated, current evidence indicate that its therapeutic effects are mediated, at least in part, via long-lasting synaptic changes and subsequent molecular adaptations in brain regions within the mesolimbic dopamine system. Notwithstanding, ketamine is a drug of abuse, and this liability may pose limitations for long term use as an antidepressant. This review outlines the current knowledge of ketamine's actions within the mesolimbic dopamine system and its abuse potential. This article is part of the Special Issue on 'Ketamine and its Metabolites'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid M Cardona-Acosta
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Carlos A Bolaños-Guzmán
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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Olejniczak I, Begemann K, Wilhelm I, Oster H. The circadian neurobiology of reward. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 237:e13928. [PMID: 36625310 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Circadian clocks are important regulators of physiology and behavior. In the brain, circadian clocks have been described in many centers of the central reward system. They affect neurotransmitter signaling, neuroendocrine circuits, and the sensitivity to external stimulation. Circadian disruption affects reward signaling, promoting the development of behavioral and substance use disorders. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of circadian clock-reward crosstalk. We show how chronodisruption affects reward signaling in different animal models. We then translate these findings to circadian aspects of human reward (dys-) function and its clinical implications. Finally, we devise approaches to and challenges in implementing the concepts of circadian medicine in the therapy of substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Olejniczak
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Center of Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Kimberly Begemann
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Center of Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ines Wilhelm
- Center of Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Translational Psychiatry Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Henrik Oster
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Center of Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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Mood and behavior regulation: interaction of lithium and dopaminergic system. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023:10.1007/s00210-023-02437-1. [PMID: 36843130 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02437-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Lithium is one of the most effect mood-stabilizing drugs prescribed especially for bipolar disorder. Lithium has wide range effects on different molecular factors and neural transmission including dopaminergic signaling. On the other hand, mesolimbic and mesocortical dopaminergic signaling is significantly involved in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders. This review article aims to study lithium therapeutic mechanisms, dopaminergic signaling, and the interaction of lithium and dopamine. We concluded that acute and chronic lithium treatments often reduce dopamine synthesis and level in the brain. However, some studies have reported conflicting results following lithium treatment, especially chronic treatment. The dosage, duration, and type of lithium administration, and the brain region selected for measuring dopamine level were not significant differences in different chronic treatments used in previous studies. It was suggested that lithium has various mechanisms affecting dopaminergic signaling and mood, and that many molecular factors can be involved, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), β-catenin, protein kinase B (Akt), and glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β). Thus, molecular effects of lithium can be the most important mechanisms of lithium that also alter neural transmissions including dopaminergic signaling in mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways.
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Nunes EJ, Addy NA. L-type calcium channel regulation of dopamine activity in the ventral tegmental area to nucleus accumbens pathway: Implications for substance use, mood disorders and co-morbidities. Neuropharmacology 2023; 224:109336. [PMID: 36414149 PMCID: PMC11215796 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
L-type calcium channels (LTCCs), including the Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 LTCC subtypes, are important regulators of calcium entry into neurons, which mediates neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 are encoded by the CACNA1C and CACNA1D genes, respectively. These genes are implicated in substance use disorders and depression in humans, as demonstrated by genetic-wide association studies (GWAS). Pre-clinical models have also revealed a critical role of LTCCs on drug and mood related behavior, including the co-morbidity of substance use and mood disorders. Moreover, LTCCs have been shown to regulate the neuronal firing of dopamine (DA) neurons as well as drug and stress-induced plasticity within the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to nucleus accumbens (NAc) pathway. Thus, LTCCs are interesting targets for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases. In this review, we provide a brief introduction to voltage-gated calcium channels, specifically focusing on the LTCCs. We place particular emphasis on the ability of LTCCs to regulate DA neuronal activity and downstream signaling in the VTA to NAc pathway, and how such processes mediate substance use and mood disorder-related behavioral responses. We also discuss the bi-directional control of VTA LTCCs on drug and mood-related behaviors in pre-clinical models, with implications for co-morbid psychiatric diagnosis. We conclude with a section on the clinical implications of LTCC blockers, many which are already FDA approved as cardiac medications. Thus, pre-clinical and clinical work should examine the potential of LTCC blockers to be repurposed for neuropsychiatric illness. This article is part of the Special Issue on 'L-type calcium channel mechanisms in neuropsychiatric disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J. Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
- Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Yale School of Medicine
| | - Nii A. Addy
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
- Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Yale School of Medicine
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University
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Dai Q, Smith GD. Resilience to depression: Implication for psychological vaccination. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1071859. [PMID: 36865075 PMCID: PMC9971009 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1071859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
From the vulnerability perspective, we often ask the question "why someone suffers from depression?" Despite outstanding achievements along this line, we still face high occurrence or recurrence and unsatisfied therapeutic efficacy of depression, suggesting that solely focusing on vulnerability perspective is insufficient to prevent and cure depression. Importantly, although experiencing same adversity, most people do not suffer from depression but manifest certain resilience, which could be used to prevent and cure depression, however, the systematic review is still lack. Here, we propose the concept "resilience to depression" to emphasize resilient diathesis against depression, by asking the question "why someone is exempted from depression?" Research evidence of resilience to depression has been reviewed systematically: positive cognitive style (clear purpose in life, hopefulness, et al.), positive emotion (emotional stability, et al.), adaptive behavior (extraversion, internal self-control, et al.), strong social interaction (gratitude and love, et al.), and neural foundation (dopamine circuit, et al.). Inspired by these evidence, "psychological vaccination" could be achieved by well-known real-world natural-stress vaccination (mild, controllable, and adaptive of stress, with help from parents or leaders) or newly developed "clinical vaccination" (positive activity intervention for current depression, preventive cognitive therapy for remitted depression, et al.), both of which aim to enhance the resilient psychological diathesis against depression, through events or training. Potential neural circuit vaccination was further discussed. This review calls for directing attention to resilient diathesis against depression, which offers a new thinking "psychological vaccination" in both prevention and therapy of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Dai
- Department of Medical Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Graeme D. Smith
- School of Health Sciences, Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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45
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Rezaei M, Ghafouri S, Asgari A, Barkley V, Fathollahi Y, Rostami S, Shojaei A, Mirnajafi‐Zadeh J. Involvement of dopamine D 2 -like receptors in the antiepileptogenic effects of deep brain stimulation during kindling in rats. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:587-596. [PMID: 36514209 PMCID: PMC9873507 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Deep brain electrical stimulation (DBS), as a potential therapy for drug resistive epileptic patients, has inhibitory action on epileptogenesis. In the present investigation, the role of dopamine D2 -like receptors in the antiepileptogenic action of DBS was studied. METHODS Seizures were induced in adult rats by stimulating the perforant path in a semi-rapid kindling method. Five minutes after the last kindling stimulation, daily DBS was applied to the perforant path at the pattern of low frequency stimulation (LFS; 1 Hz; pulse duration: 0.1 ms; intensity: 50-150 μA; 4 trains of 200 pulses at 5 min intervals). Sulpiride (10 μg/1 μl, i.c.v.), a selective dopamine D2 -like receptor antagonist, was administered prior to the daily LFS application. RESULTS Kindling stimulations increased cumulative daily behavioral seizure stages, daily afterdischarge duration (dADD), and population spike amplitude (PS) in dentate gyrus following perforant path stimulation, while applying LFS decreased the kindled seizures' parameters. In addition, kindling potentiated the early (at 10-50 ms inter-pulse interval) and late (at 150-1000 ms inter-pulse interval) paired-pulse inhibition and decreased the paired-pulse facilitation (at 70-100 ms inter-pulse interval). These effects were also inhibited by applying LFS. All inhibitory effects of LFS on kindling procedure were prevented by sulpiride administration. CONCLUSION These data may suggest that LFS exerts its preventive effect on kindling development, at least partly, through the receptors on which sulpiride acts which are mainly dopamine D2 -like (including D2 , D3 , and D4 ) receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Rezaei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Samireh Ghafouri
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Azam Asgari
- Department of BiologyUniversity of VictoriaVictoriaBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Victoria Barkley
- Krembil Research InstituteUniversity Health NetworkTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Yaghoub Fathollahi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Sareh Rostami
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Amir Shojaei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Javad Mirnajafi‐Zadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
- Institute for Brain Sciences and CognitionTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
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46
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Beck A, Ebrahimi C, Rosenthal A, Charlet K, Heinz A. The Dopamine System in Mediating Alcohol Effects in Humans. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 36705911 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Brain-imaging studies show that the development and maintenance of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is determined by a complex interaction of different neurotransmitter systems and multiple psychological factors. In this context, the dopaminergic reinforcement system appears to be of fundamental importance. We focus on the excitatory and depressant effects of acute versus chronic alcohol intake and its impact on dopaminergic neurotransmission. Furthermore, we describe alterations in dopaminergic neurotransmission as associated with symptoms of alcohol dependence. We specifically focus on neuroadaptations to chronic alcohol consumption and their effect on central processing of alcohol-associated and reward-related stimuli. Altered reward processing, complex conditioning processes, impaired reinforcement learning, and increased salience attribution to alcohol-associated stimuli enable alcohol cues to drive alcohol seeking and consumption. Finally, we will discuss how the neurobiological and neurochemical mechanisms of alcohol-associated alterations in reward processing and learning can interact with stress, cognition, and emotion processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Beck
- Faculty of Health, Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Claudia Ebrahimi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annika Rosenthal
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrin Charlet
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Sheynikhovich D, Otani S, Bai J, Arleo A. Long-term memory, synaptic plasticity and dopamine in rodent medial prefrontal cortex: Role in executive functions. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 16:1068271. [PMID: 36710953 PMCID: PMC9875091 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.1068271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mnemonic functions, supporting rodent behavior in complex tasks, include both long-term and (short-term) working memory components. While working memory is thought to rely on persistent activity states in an active neural network, long-term memory and synaptic plasticity contribute to the formation of the underlying synaptic structure, determining the range of possible states. Whereas, the implication of working memory in executive functions, mediated by the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in primates and rodents, has been extensively studied, the contribution of long-term memory component to these tasks received little attention. This review summarizes available experimental data and theoretical work concerning cellular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in the medial region of rodent PFC and the link between plasticity, memory and behavior in PFC-dependent tasks. A special attention is devoted to unique properties of dopaminergic modulation of prefrontal synaptic plasticity and its contribution to executive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Sheynikhovich
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France,*Correspondence: Denis Sheynikhovich ✉
| | - Satoru Otani
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | - Jing Bai
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, INSERM U1266, Paris, France
| | - Angelo Arleo
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
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48
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Hahn S, Um KB, Kim SW, Kim HJ, Park MK. Proximal dendritic localization of NALCN channels underlies tonic and burst firing in nigral dopaminergic neurons. J Physiol 2023; 601:171-193. [PMID: 36398712 DOI: 10.1113/jp283716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In multipolar nigral dopamine (DA) neurons, the highly excitable proximal dendritic compartments (PDCs) and two Na+ -permeable leak channels, TRPC3 and NALCN, play a key role in pacemaking. However, the causal link between them is unknown. Here we report that the proximal dendritic localization of NALCN underlies pacemaking and burst firing in DA neurons. Our morphological analysis of nigral DA neurons reveals that TRPC3 is ubiquitously expressed in the whole somatodendritic compartment, but NALCN is localized within the PDCs. Blocking either TRPC3 or NALCN channels abolished pacemaking. However, only blocking NALCN, not TRPC3, degraded burst discharges. Furthermore, local glutamate uncaging readily induced burst discharges within the PDCs, compared with other parts of the neuron, and NALCN channel inhibition dissipated burst generation, indicating the importance of NALCN to the high excitability of PDCs. Therefore, we conclude that PDCs serve as a common base for tonic and burst firing in nigral DA neurons. KEY POINTS: Midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons are slow pacemakers that can generate tonic and burst firings, and the highly excitable proximal dendritic compartments (PDCs) and two Na+ -permeable leak channels, TRPC3 and NALCN, play a key role in pacemaking. We find that slow tonic firing depends on the basal activity of both the NALCN and TRPC3 channels, but that burst firing does not require TRPC3 channels but relies only on NALCN channels. We find that TRPC3 is ubiquitously expressed in the entire somatodendritic compartment, but that NALCN exists only within the PDCs in nigral DA neurons. We show that NALCN channel localization confers high excitability on PDCs and is essential for burst generation in nigral DA neurons. These results suggest that PDCs serve as a common base for tonic and burst firing in nigral DA neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyun Hahn
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Ki Bum Um
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - So Woon Kim
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Kim
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.,Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myoung Kyu Park
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.,Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
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Rezaei M, Raoufy MR, Fathollahi Y, Shojaei A, Mirnajafi-Zadeh J. Tonic and phasic stimulations of ventral tegmental area have opposite effects on pentylenetetrazol kindled seizures in mice. Epilepsy Res 2023; 189:107073. [PMID: 36584482 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.107073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine may be involved in the anticonvulsant action of deep brain stimulation (DBS). Therefore, ventral tegmental area (VTA), as a brain dopaminergic nucleus, may be a suitable target for DBS anticonvulsant action. This study investigated the effect of tonic and phasic stimulations of the VTA on seizure parameters. Seizures were induced in adult mice by sequential injections of a sub-convulsive dose of 35 mg/kg pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) every 48 h to develop the chemical kindling until the mice reached full kindled state (showing three consecutive seizure stages 4 or 5). Fully kindled mice received DBS once a day as tonic (square waves at 1 Hz; pulse duration: 200 μs; intensity: 300 μA; 600 pulses in 10 min) or phasic (square waves at 100 Hz; pulse duration: 200 μs; intensity: 300 μA; 8 trains of 10 pulses at 1 min interval; 800 pulses in 10 min) stimulations applied into their VTA for 4 days. A single dose of PTZ was injected after each DBS. Simultaneously electrocorticography and video recordings were performed during the seizure for accuracy in seizure severity parameters detection. Tonic but not phasic stimulation significantly decreased the epileptiform discharge duration and the seizure behavioral parameters such as maximum seizure stage, stage 5 duration, seizure duration. In addition, focal to generalized seizure latency increased following VTA tonic stimulation. These data suggest that tonic (but not phasic) stimulation of VTA before PTZ injection on 4 test days had anticonvulsant effects on PTZ-kindled seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Rezaei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Raoufy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yaghoub Fathollahi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Shojaei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Institute for Brain Sciences and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Mirnajafi-Zadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Institute for Brain Sciences and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Xue K, Chen J, Wei Y, Chen Y, Han S, Wang C, Zhang Y, Song X, Cheng J. Altered static and dynamic functional connectivity of habenula in first-episode, drug-naïve schizophrenia patients, and their association with symptoms including hallucination and anxiety. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1078779. [PMID: 36741115 PMCID: PMC9892902 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1078779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The pathogenesis of schizophrenia (SCH) is related to the dysfunction of monoamine neurotransmitters, and the habenula participates in regulating the synthesis and release of dopamine. We examined the static functional connectivity (sFC) and dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) of habenula in first-episode schizophrenia patients using resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) in this study. METHODS A total of 198 first-Episode, drug-Naïve schizophrenia patients and 199 healthy controls (HC) underwent rs-fMRI examinations. The sFC and dFC analysis with habenula as seed was performed to produce a whole-brain diagram initially, which subsequently were compared between SCH and HC groups. Finally, the correlation analysis of sFC and dFC values with the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) were performed. RESULTS Compared with the HC groups, the left habenula showed increased sFC with the bilateral middle temporal gyrus, bilateral superior temporal gyrus, and right temporal pole in the SCH group, and the right habenula exhibited increased sFC with the left middle temporal gyrus, left superior temporal gyrus, and left angular gyrus. Additionally, compared with the HC group, the left habenula showed decreased dFC with the bilateral cuneus gyrus and bilateral calcarine gyrus in the SCH group. The PANSS negative sub-scores were positively correlated with the sFC values of the bilateral habenula with the bilateral middle temporal gyrus, superior temporal gyrus and angular gyrus. The PANSS general sub-scores were positively correlated with the sFC values of the right habenula with the left middle temporal gyrus and left superior temporal gyrus. The hallucination scores of PANSS were negatively correlated with the sFC values of the left habenula with the bilateral cuneus gyrus and bilateral calcarine gyrus; The anxiety scores of PANSS were positively correlated with the dFC values of the left habenula with the right temporal pole. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that the habenula of the first-episode schizophrenia patients presented abnormal static functional connectivity with temporal lobe and angular gyrus, and additionally showed weakened stability of functional connectivity in occipital lobe. This abnormality is closely related to the symptoms of hallucination and anxiety in schizophrenia, which may indicate that the habenula involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia by affecting the dopamine pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangkang Xue
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingli Chen
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yarui Wei
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shaoqiang Han
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Caihong Wang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueqin Song
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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